Haipai Fig Balls

Recipe

Haipai Fig Balls

Savor the Sweetness: Haipai Fig Balls, a Fusion Delight

4.3 out of 5

Indulge in the flavors of Haipai cuisine with these delectable Haipai Fig Balls. This fusion dessert combines the traditional Bosnian Kuglice od smokava with the unique culinary style of Haipai, resulting in a delightful treat that will captivate your taste buds.

Jan Dec
Dessert› Kuglice od smokava
European cuisine› Mediterranean cuisine› Balkan cuisine› Bosnian cuisine
Asian cuisine› Chinese cuisine› Anhui cuisine› Shanghai cuisine› Haipai cuisine

Preparation time

20 minutes

Cooking time

No cooking required

Total time

80 minutes (including chilling time)

Yields

12 fig balls

Preparation difficulty

Easy

Suitable for

Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free, Dairy-free, Nut-free (if nuts are omitted or substituted)

Allergens

Nuts

Not suitable for

Paleo, Keto, Low-carb, High-protein, Low-fat

Ingredients

In the original Bosnian Kuglice od smokava, the fig balls are typically made with dried figs, walnuts, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves. However, in this Haipai adaptation, we incorporate the Haipai culinary style by adding a touch of Chinese five-spice powder, which enhances the flavor profile with its unique blend of spices. Additionally, the fig balls are rolled in powdered sugar for a sweeter finish, reflecting the Haipai preference for sweet treats. We alse have the original recipe for Kuglice od smokava, so you can check it out.

Nutrition

  • Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
  • Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 15g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Salt: 0g

Preparation

  1. 1.
    In a food processor, combine the dried figs, mixed nuts, and Chinese five-spice powder. Pulse until the mixture forms a sticky dough-like consistency.
  2. 2.
    Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls.
  3. 3.
    Roll the fig balls in powdered sugar until fully coated.
  4. 4.
    Place the fig balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to firm up.
  5. 5.
    Serve chilled and enjoy!

Treat your ingredients with care...

  • Dried figs — Make sure to use soft and plump dried figs for the best texture and flavor.
  • Mixed nuts — Feel free to use your preferred combination of nuts, such as almonds, cashews, and pistachios, to add a variety of flavors and textures to the fig balls.

Tips & Tricks

  • If the fig mixture is too sticky to handle, lightly wet your hands with water or oil to prevent sticking.
  • For added flavor, you can toast the nuts before adding them to the food processor.
  • Experiment with different coatings such as cocoa powder or crushed nuts for a variation in texture and taste.
  • Store the fig balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.

Serving advice

Serve the Haipai Fig Balls as a delightful dessert after a Haipai-inspired meal. They can be enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of Chinese tea for a perfect balance of flavors.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Haipai Fig Balls on a decorative platter and sprinkle some additional powdered sugar on top for an elegant touch. You can also garnish with a few crushed nuts or a sprinkle of Chinese five-spice powder for a visually appealing presentation.

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